Osteoporosis

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Anyone can develop osteoporosis, which makes bones brittle and more likely to break, but it is more common in older women. This disease progresses silently, and, in fact, most people remain undiagnosed until a bone breaks. Risk factors include aging, being small and thin, a family history, being female, poor health, smoking cigarettes, low calcium intake, excessive alcohol use, recurrent falls, inadequate exercise and having low bone mass.

Prevention

In order to prevent osteoporosis, get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D, quit smoking and drinking in excess, exercise regularly and get regular bone density tests if needed.

Rehabilitation

Once the cast or splint is removed after open reduction internal fixation surgery, patients will need to loosen stiff muscles and ligaments. The doctor will prescribe a home exercise regimen that will include stretching, strengthening and increasing the range of motion to help ease patients back into their daily routine.